When making changes to your existing landscaping, undergoing a major renovation or fulfilling the yard to your brand new home, there may be some considerations to look at when choosing the appropriate tree for the spaces you have in mind. You may feel overwhelmed at ALL the options available for trees and the decisions ahead as you plan out an item that will be there long term. Perhaps we can demystify some of the choices!

The correct placement and the best possible selection can really enhance your space and create an inviting outdoor space, and also add value to your property. Adding curb appeal, framing a view, and shade can also be added benefits to a tree installation. Type, size, location, watering habits, climate, size at maturity - all can have an impact on your decision. It can feel daunting with all the choices, but it is worth spending the time on.

Consider The Growing Space: How much available room to do you have for height and width, considering the mature size of the canopy of the tree. What might be the maximum height are are capable of having before you overshadow a specific area of your yard or potentially interrupting a neighbour’s view? What impact will the shade of the tree have on the area adjacent to this.

Main Objective for the Tree: Is it shade you’re after? Or Privacy? if so you may want to opt for a large tree, if you have the growing space. Is it to add color or to add a small wind break, or perhaps just curb appeal? In this case, you may want to go for an ornamental variety, these tend to be on the smaller side.

Growing Conditions /Hardiness Zone: Consider the hardiness zone for your region, but also the growing conditions for the actual site the tree will live. Will it get enough light, moisture and the soil type must match the demands of the tree. You can somewhat alter the soil by amending it with compost to improve drainage and adding drip irrigation if the site doesn’t get enough moisture to suit your selection.

Consider The Outdoor Living Situation: If the tree will be a part of the outdoor living, you will want to avoid anything known for dropping lots of leaves/ twigs/ seeds/ fruit! Also, anything fast growing that may encroach onto paths or spaces that you’'ll need to constantly trim the tree or clean up.

How about Winter Interest? If privacy year-round is the main objective, then perhaps you’ll choose something evergreen that won’t shed its leaves. If the shade/ heat reprieve is most important, then something deciduous may be your best choice. There are also some trees that look most brilliant in fall, when all the summer flowers have left.

With these questions answered, you should be well on your way to making a great selection, the best one for YOU! Happy Planting!

A few examples of some of our favourites are:

Shade/Street/Large: Autumn Blaze Maple, Autumn Purple Green Ash, Greenspire Linden

Ornamental: Serviceberry, Japanese Maple, Flowering Dogwood

Medium Tree: Pissardi Plum, Chanticleer Pear, Ivory Silk